Graphic film: a new genre of moving image

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Abstract

Over the past three years I have engaged in a search for a form of moving image that would serve as a medium to contain, express and communicate my concerns and ideas. My initial investigations led me to motion graphics but as my understanding of moving image broadened I came to the conclusion that the models I was examining did not fit this genre, they are something new and do not have a definition. There are conflicting ideas about what the term motion graphics means. For the purpose of clarity, I adopted Matt Frantz's definition as a start point: "designed, non-narrative, non-figurative based visuals that change over time." Motion graphics is often considered a component of a larger moving image work or a filler element between two larger works. For example, the opening moments of a film or television programme, or a swirling abstract that forms a background for an interstitial between programmes. I require a description of a moving image type of that can be used as a guide to making work. Research into the field of moving image work made by designers was conducted with grounded theory employed as the principle methodology. This research has revealed a moving image type that I refer to as "graphic film". During the past year I have identified its key characteristics. I have explored and tested the boundaries of this new genre by constructing graphic film and comparing it to previously defined forms of moving image. The outcome of this project is a comprehensive description of what graphic film is and its ten primary characteristics. This project can serve as a guide for other graphic designers who wish to make work of this type.